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At Rartigillichal:
Manouche *coming
outside to look for Abberline, is surprised to see him stalking angrily back toward the house*
Fred! Dinner’ll be ready soon.
I thought I heard voices out ‘ere, what’s— *she
looks past him, sees Kat, rushes toward her* KAT, mate, am I glad t’ see
ye! Th’ most extraordinary … *she glances over, sees Jack, who has
quietly withdrawn from the scene and is now tapping the trees on her property, leaning close and listening to them as he taps. Manouche watches him for a moment, frowning, then shakes her head; turns to Kat* Kat, we ‘ave a lot t’ talk about.
Ye ‘ave t’ tell me … *her voice trails off again as she sees Kat’s angry expression; she arches
a brow, turns, looks at Abberline, who stopped when she came out of the house and now stands defiantly, glowering at Kat. Manouche sighs, runs a hand through her hair*
Ahh, I see. Well … *she glances around a little uncomfortably, looks
at Kat, shrugs* Sooo ... blimey, this is one fer th’ bloody books, innit,
mate? Jus’ think, I didn’t even know I were capable o’ carryin’
a child. Now, ‘ere I am … incubatin’ the offspring of …
*she looks at Abberline, then at Kat again, raises her hands up* Kat, luv, on
me pirate’s honor, nothin’ ‘appened between Fred an’ me, savvy?
*she motions toward her middle* This ‘appened at … well, I
were at yer house, after it’d burned. It … ahh, bollocks, it’s
almost too fantastic t’ even talk about. *she tries to think of something
she can add that might ease the tension, then she brightens as she remembers something*
Kat, I ‘ave somethin’ fer ye. As I were extricatin’
meself from th’ Ravenwood rubble, I … I gathered several odds an’ ends that I saw along th’ way. Jus’ a few lil’ things, a turquoise necklace, a pair o’ moccasins,
an’ so on. I know they ain’t much, but … *she stops, suddenly
feels horrible. Her friend stands before her, she’s lost her beloved house,
she knows Manouche is carrying Abberline’s child, it’s uncertain whether she believes it’s Metrea’s
… and here Manouche is prattling on about a few worthless items that she pulled from the fire. She gazes at Kat sympathetically, swallows, finishes lamely* I
… I jus’ thought ye might be glad to ‘ave ‘em, after losin’ the house, which is truly a tragedy
… me condolences, mate. *adds gently*
Please, come into th’ house, ‘ave a drink, join us fer dinner, let’s talk things over.
Kat *In an
appeasing tone* Mate, ye really ought te get in outta the sun, eh? Clearly yer delusional. Babe's don't come fro' burned out ruins*
Glances sharply at Abby* only fro' depraved lecher's that most like got
ye drunk 'forehand. *Pauses then frowns*
What?? Beads...moccasins....what are ye on about??
Manouche: Ah … w-well, jus’ as I say, luv.
I were makin’ me way out from th’ cellar, or what was left of it … an’ as I went along, I saw
a few things. Nothin’ of value, I’m afraid. I – I’m sorry it couldn’t ‘ave been some o’ yer tattoo equipment, er such. But … I thought a lil’ sentimental value may be soothin’. Though th’ necklace is obviously a fine piece, all beautiful silver an’ turquoise. An’ like I said, a pair o’ moccasins, pretty beadwork.
*squints, trying to remember what else there was* An’ there was
a battered ciggie case … oh, an’ a piece o’ sailcloth … *grins a little sheepishly* I reckon that were a bit silly, I don’t know what made me pick it up.
*motions toward the house* They’re inside, I can get ‘em fer
ye straight away if ye wish.
Kat:
shhhh ....... Ietquay aboutway ethay igcay asecay. Savvy?? *Glancing at Abby* Aye I want 'em. Not all treasure is silver and gold mate. Them thin's be of
no worth te none other. But be pearls of great value te me.
Abberline: I am a lecher, eh? Very good.
*Very sharply* Will you stop that nonsense about some trinkets. Kat, I don't really care anymore what you think and say. Manouche,
give her the rubbish so she can leave with her lover to the boat.
Kat: There ye see 'e admits it!!! *To Abby* Did ye e'er and 'e's not my lover yet but 'e soon will be!! One
among many!!! Good for the goose and all that, eh???
Manouche *glances
at Abberline worriedly, then back to Kat* Ah … savvy, mate. Er … avvy-say. *winks, Kat rolls her eyes* Would ye like t’ come in an’ ‘ave a drink while I fetch ‘em? *looks over, sees that Jack is at the far end of the property, still tapping trees; she shakes her head* Sometimes I worry a bit about ‘im. But
then, more often than not, there’s method to his madness. *looks at Kat,
then to Abberline* So what’s it goin’ to be with th’ pair o’
ye? Can ye at least both come in th’ house an’ be civil with each
other fer a time while yer ‘ere? Jus’ put on a front, at least fer
th’ sake o’ yer children, they’re both in there. Alifi an’
Chírilo too. If not, then … *looks at Kat regretfully* … then it
may be best if ye wait ‘ere, luv, an’ I’ll get yer belongin’s an’ bring ‘em to ye. Then ... ye an' Cap'n Jack can be on yer way if that's what ye want. I wouldn’t give a toss about a row inside if it weren’t fer th’ children, but we don’t
want t’ be upsettin’ ‘em.
Abberline: *to Kat* I didn't
admit anything, because I don't have to. If you have a fancy to turn into a slut, I have to ask you to start using your own
name and not dragging mine into the dirt with you. Oh, I am sure the children will both be thrilled hearing that they will
lose their mother. Manouche, just get her things out.
Manouche *sighs* Right, wait ‘ere, I’ll be right back.
*looks at them both sternly* But both o’ ye keep yer voices down,
all right? Don't be makin' them kids in there suffer needlessly. One of
th' worst bloody things in th' world, fer a child t' see his parents on th' outs. *she
looks out to where Jack is still examining trees, calls out to him* Cap’n! *motions toward the guest house* Kat’ll
be delayed jus’ a few minutes. There’s rum in th’ guest house
if yer of a mind. *she watches him perk up, turn and make a beeline to the guest
house. She looks at Kat* Back in
two shakes, mate. *turns, goes back to the main house*
At the DeMarcos’:
Ava: Yes my child is great
but that is because this baby is a gift I shall treasure my little piece of gold
Sister: Your gift is heaven
sent and now we know that she will be loved
Ava: She *pauses* that doesn’t
make no sense what so ever shouldn’t the worlds greatest lover be a boy I am sorry but men are easily pleased you just
show them some skin and they are happy. Where as woman need a lot more than a bit of naked flesh on show.
Sister: but that’s
what is in the book *she begins to quote the great book of incarnation* the next shall be a dark haired temptress that
seduces men may the male of the species fall at her feet and they shall be rewarded with her gift. This female has great powers
she will follow in her father’s footsteps much to his anger. *Shrugs* There you see that’s it if the book
says it, it must be true.
Ava: Well I think you are
wrong and you know why because that doesn’t make no sense, no sense at all. All Don wants is a son so he can teach him
all the things he knows about woman and that’s what I want too I want to watch my son grow up to respect woman and not
treat them like a piece of meat. *Pausing again* I don’t want him to decide that he can only choose a woman’s
fate I want him to show them the way as such. *Smiles* And what the worlds greatest lover wants he gets and that’s why
I know your wrong it’s not a girl.
Sister: Your words are fine
Ava but they lie, the world has already seen a male greatest lover, now he has seen fit to give the world a female greatest
lover, may there only be one male greatest lover. When you did the deed he being the worlds greatest lover he focused on your
needs so if you believe the folklore you are will receive a girl and if you focused on him you will receive a boy. Now I know
the world’s greatest lover and he always focuses on a female and her needs
Ava: then you think highly
of him don’t you? He may be the world’s greatest lover I don’t deny that *smiles* but he is also a man who
has needs which need to be met. Edna in a relationship you must not just take, take, take that doesn’t work. For me
to get something off of Don I must give to him too that how a relationship works you must give to be able to give to be able
to take. *Smiles* some relationships don’t work because one person may give and they will not see anything in return
but I am getting off topic.
Sister: Ava do you doubt
his abilities
Ava: No I do not but I doubt
that book of yours I am sorry but that book was written by a man because if it was a woman she would keep it as it is a steady
slow supply of male worlds greatest lovers. Sister if you are to work for me us must understand that I will argue with you
all the way and that if you speak of this in front of him I will send you back to Mexico as quick as you came here. Now my child will be a son because that is what Don
wants a son
Sister: Then the both of
you will be disappointed wont you
Ava: Maybe but I still have
and I hope that he will be a son I just have to wait another 7 weeks for me to know for sure. My instincts say a boy but maybe
they are jaded because that is what I want and not what I need *doubts start to set in*
Sister: Exactly Ava your
mind is jaded *she pulls out a spare copy of the book of Incarnation* Read this it shall clear the mist. *smiles* Ava you
may even discover new things about your husband and his legacy and your child's legacy.
Ava: Thanks *takes the book
she is still unsure about it* does Don know about this temple or convent where you come from does he know that it is dedicated
to him or is this a new found sect.
Sister: He should know his
great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, Grandmother started
it many moons ago. Now whether not his mother ever told him is a different matter *sighs* she still has not got the heart
to tell her son that she found a new husband the great Father Love-Joy.
Ava: *stifling a laugh* Love-Joy
that would make Don, Don Juan DeMarco Love-Joy *burst out laughing* oh that's so funny Married you say are you sure he doesn't
know
Sister: *looking at her disapprovingly*
Whats so funny Father Love-Joy is a kind Handsome man. We are positive that he doesn't know because we nuns only know and
know hate to say this I have dropped myself in it haven't I
Ava: Oh yes you have *smiles
Ava takes that little bit of information and she stores it in her mind* Thank you for sharing such secret information.
At Rartigillichal:
Kat *to Abberline* My children be comin' with me. I'll not
leave 'ere without 'em! *Glaring at Abby*
They'll grow up with their sister when I get my 'ands on 'er!! 'spite
of what 'e wants!!
Abberline *watches Manouche
go in, then he raises his voice* My children, Kat. As it happens, that sister of theirs is more near than you think.
Raven can choose for himself, but don't think for a moment that I would give Chiana to you! You haven't been much of a mother, have you. You can't give
them a proper home and you know it.
Kat *Snarls* Ye be forgettin' somethin' luv. Chiana be tied te me. *Holds up her hand* I tossed that companion ring that disrupts that connection. Where
I go, Chiana must go as well and there be naught ye can do 'bout it!!! Savvy???
Abberline: You wouldn't do that! *looks at her without a word for long,
eyes flashing* I see. Fine. If that is so simple, it means that you are not going anywhere else than back home.
I am sure there are ways to break that kind of witchery. I will find a way. Bloody hell, I will. I am not giving up Chiana. And she doesn't want to come with
you, she loves me. You can't take her from me.
Kat: Cruel??? As cruel as you be.
Ye'd take 'er fro' me with out a second thought and deny 'er sister’s existence cause it pleasures ye te do so. I'll go where it pleases me and with whom. I
be not fool 'nuff te wait around 'til ye decide it be safe te kick me out without 'er.
Abberline: I told you, it's my and Metrea's child Manouche is carrying. You
don't have anything to do with it. *he calms down, smiles a knowing smile* So what was that note about, Kat? Something
about me needing a better wife than a pirate. I do indeed see your point. Chiana and Raven deserve a better mother. What
about love, Kat, where did it all go?
Kat *Lip trembling. Places her hands over her ears* Stop
it!!! I willna listen te ye speak of love.
I broke my own rule. Love be a weakness and must be stifled at all costs. Else it betrays and tramples ye te the ground.
As is 'appenin' now.
Abberline: But you didn't stifle it, did you? It's not the first time
you told you love me, Kat. But what kind of love is it that makes you flee and
hurt me again and again. You can't have love without trust. Yes, I agree with you, love is a weakness and all it gives one is pain and hurt. Love is such a strange thing, isn't it. *he steps closer to
her* Do you love me still?
Kat *Reluctantly* Aye, but what good does it do. I canna
leave Raven and Chiana's sister to Metrea's tender lovin' care. Raised to know
and feel only hatred. She'd end up bein' more of a monster than Metrea and just
who do ye think all that hatin' will be aimed at?? *Pokes him in the chest with
her finger* At Chiana and Raven for 'avin' a father who loved 'em. No, not just any father but 'er father who rejected 'er 'fore she drawed breath. I willna allow it. Do you 'ear me! I won't!!
Abberline: Now listen very carefully. You know that the best way to destroy
me is to take Chiana from me. Is that really what you want? Metrea's child will
not end up as a monster, because it will ... *stops and frowns, then breaks into a smile* Are
you sure that it is a she? My Faith? She
will grow up with me, and she will have Manouche as her mother. That's what I
have been trying to tell you. If you don't believe me, find Metrea. Whatever she planned did not succeed, and I don't care how it happened or why, but Manouche is having the
child. My child. *his smile fades
and he looks at her seriously with dark eyes* As for you, you have to do your
choice. Does it really have to come to a divorce? *glances at Jack* Your lover-to-be is getting impatient.
Manouche *comes
back from the house, slowly approaches them* ‘Ere, Kat, this is everythin’
I picked up at yer house. *she comes up to Kat, hands her a canvas bag; looks
at her, then Abberline* So then, how are ye both farin’? Th’ way I see it, ye ‘ave several choices at th’ moment.
Ye can continue yer discussion, which I’d suggest ye take over to th’ guest house while Alifi an’
I mind th’ children … or ye can come inside an’ we’ll postpone serious talkin’ fer another time
… or go yer separate ways, at least fer this evenin’. *glances at
the guest house* There’s Jack t’ consider as well. It’s quiet over there. Too quiet. *smiles slightly* He could drink ‘imself into a stupor before ye make up yer minds.
Abberline: I don't think there's more to discuss, Manouche. Or what,
Kat? Oh, one thing that I'd like you to do, Manouche. Drive away that pirate buffoon. He was trying to seduce my
wife. If you don't want to, I am ready to tell him myself that he is not wanted
here. And I have my gun.
Manouche *looks
at him, frowns* Fred Abberline, I didn’t invite ye ‘ere t’
play cops an’ robbers! There’ll be no shootin’ anyone on me
property, savvy? Cap’n Jack is a mate, an’ he’s been instrumental
in helpin’ us in th’ past, includin’ helpin’ save yer life.
Now I ain’t sayin’ I’ll condone ‘im an’ Kat messin’ about, seein’ as how
ye were me guest ‘ere first this evenin’. *glances at Kat* If th’ pair of ‘em are intendin’ a tete-a-tete, they’ll ‘ave to take it elsewhere. *turns to Abberline again* But as long
as Kat’s ‘ere with you, an’ Jack’s in the guest house, ye’ll leave ‘im be, savvy? *she stops talking suddenly, feels a little dizzy, brings her hand to her middle,
sways unsteadily for a moment, then regains her balance; speaks to him again, her voice softer, imploringly* Please, mate.
Abberline *mutters* He's not my friend ... *he stops immediately, wraps his arm around her with a very
concerned expression* What is it? Careful,
Manouche, I'll promise I won't say another word. You have to get in and have
a rest. *looks at her fearfully* Should
we call a doctor?
Manouche: N-no, it’s all right. Jus’
… a dizzy spell, that’s all. I reckon I felt too much stress at th’
thought of th’ children seein’ or hearin’ somethin’ unpleasant.
*smiles a little at Abberline* Steady on, mate … this sorta thing’ll
no doubt ‘appen from time t’ time till this is over. No worries,
more often than not, it’s nothin’. *she’s quiet for a moment,
and she’s surprised to hear very faint voices in her head, and she realizes she’s hearing bits and pieces of the
conversation Kat and Abberline were having while she was inside. She looks at
them both sympathetically* Blimey, yer emotions are all over th’ bleedin’
map, ain’t they? I wish I ‘ad answers fer ye. I can’t imagine how it must be, t’ love each other so deeply an’ yet ‘ave so much
trouble buildin’ a life together. *to Kat, as she brings a hand to her
belly* Kat, luv, we mustn’t give this child t’ Metrea. She should stay with one o’ ye, or barrin’ that, there are so many other options. She could go t’ Gili, or … hell, she could stay ‘ere with us. Ye know I’d raise ‘er th’ best I could, an’ see to it that she’d never be
lackin’ anythin’. *pauses, adds*
I’m sorry ye believe that love be a weakness, mate. There were a
time I would’a tried t’ talk ye out o’ that, but … knowin’ what ye been through at various times
in yer life, I can see why ye’d be inclined toward that particular opinion. *turns
to Abberline* Fred, it’s true, love needs trust. Seems t’ me both o’ ye ‘ave broken each others’ trust in th’ past. Th’ question is, where’ll ye both go from ‘ere?
Ye ‘ave children between ye, so it’d serve ye well to work out some way o’ dealin’ with each
other fer th’ children’s sake. *smiles* Aye, Fred, Kat’s right … th’ child is a girl. I
knew, but … I didn’t want t’ tell ye until ye asked. Congratulations,
luv. *she stops leaning against him, squeezes his hand; pushes her hair back
from her face* There, I’m sound now.
Dinner’s in about ten minutes. I’m goin’ back in to
help Alifi an’ see to th’ kids. Th’ pair o’ ye do whatever
ye feel y’ need to do, savvy? I jus’ ask two things … no loud
fightin’ or violence out ‘ere. An’ Fred, if ye decide yer leavin’,
let us know. Otherwise, Raven’ll be askin’ after ye, an’ Chiana’ll
start fussin’. She’s asleep now, but she’ll wake up cranky
if ‘er daddy’s left without a by-yer-leave. *smiles at them both,
turns, starts back to the house*
At Ravenwood:
Zach *hands over the keys
to Ichy, who nods very gravely as he accepts them* Mr. Crane, if you find anything
to complain about, we will fix it for free.
Ichy: Constable Crane, that
is. *graciously* At the moment it
looks good enough for me. But I did make quick notes of details missing or not
executed perfectly. You may use it as a reference at your next construction site.
Thank you. That would be all. *and he gives Zach a thick envelope filled with papers written in his flamboyant hand*
Zach
*sarcastically* I am in awe, Constable Crane, I will cherish it all my life ...
Ichy: You are welcome. *he
turns his back to Zach and enters the house. It looks like the old Ravenwood,
but it has the smell of fresh wood and timber, and all the furniture is still missing, as well as all decorations. He goes straight to the basement door and descends the stairs, stopping to admire the new basement. And the space that is going to be his new lab. He
doesn't expect Kat to return ever to Ravenwood, she is too hooked on that Inspector, and that is exactly why he so gallantly
raised the house to her. He can use it all for himself ... He starts to unpack
the big cardboard boxes to furnish his new lab. It will be the best one can get.
A pity, though, that because the equipment was so expensive, as the building
of the house as fast as it was done, he must use the lab for doing more ghost tranq*
At Deppville town centre:
Romany *stands at the door
of the home she shares with Sam she still has her hand in his hand. They nervously kiss other it is a gentle kiss it only
last for a few seconds but those few seconds are heaven sent. Romany finally lets go of his hand and she blows him a kiss
and waves him goodbye. Sam leaves the house and slowly makes his way into town he rehearse what he is going to say so he doesn't
sound stupid. Sam enjoys walking he likes to watch people they do some funny things he makes his way through the park he Sees
pathos run past him nearly knocking him off of his feet. Sam brushes himself and carries on walking into the centre of town
when he spots Malachi and he nervously approaches him. Romany told Sam to look both ways when crossing the road
as not to get hit by a car. As Sam gets closer and closer to Malachi he finally plucks up the courage to talk to him.*
Sam: *nervously* Hello Malachi
I need your help *smiles nervously* it's about a girl *blushing* I don't know what to do.
Malachi *stops,
turns, sees Sam, smiles* Oh … Sam.
We don’t see you around here much. *looks at him carefully* Girl trouble, eh? You dog! *he grins roguishly at him, hides a laugh as Sam blushes more. He
puts a friendly arm around Sam’s shoulders* C’mon, let’s go
have a drink, tell me what’s on your mind. *he leads him to Chez Roux,
chooses a booth that’s a little secluded, away from the other diners, so Sam will be more comfortable talking. He waves for a waitress* Bourbon, luv. *looks at Sam* What’ll you have,
Sam? Anything you want.
Sam: *rather embarrassed*
A hot chocolate please with whipped cream on the top and chocolate sprinkles on the top please. *looks at him* I work in the
rental shop and I work with Mrs DeMarco and Romany, Ava is very kind she lets me stay with Romany *he watches the waitress disappear
and he opens his wallet, pulls out a picture of him and Romany, pushes it over to Malachi*. That's her Malachi that's
Romany *looks nervously around* I don't know what to do with her. *Sam looks at him* I don’t know what to
do I was going to ask Don but Ava say's he's gone missing I started to worry and then she said he went missing because she
is fat. *still looks at Malachi* I don’t think she is fat. I don’t understand girls.
Malachi *raises eyebrows,
looks at the picture, nods* Romany, eh?
She’s very pretty. You say Ava said Don’s run off because
she’s fat? *shakes his head, mutters*
World’s greatest lover indeed. *he looks at Sam* Sam, I’ll try to help if I can. *glances up, nods thanks
as the waitress comes back with their drinks. He takes a drink of the bourbon,
lights a cigarette* What is it you want to know?
Sam *taking a sip of hot
chocolate* I think what Ava meant that he ran away because Ava was getting fat
but I still don’t understand Ava is a pretty lady. *he thinks for a moment* Everything Malachi I don’t know any thing about a woman I have only just kissed
her *blushes* I would also like to know why Romany changes her outfit 10 times in the morning and she puts the first one back
on.
Malachi: Well, Don’s a little confussled these days, don’t worry about that. Let’s concentrate on you and your lady friend. *pauses,
thinks a moment* It’s really very easy, Sam, surprisingly easy. People make it too complicated. Just treat her the way you’d
like to be treated. Be considerate, be kind, show her a good sense of humor,
pay attention to the things she likes and dislikes. *he thinks of Miranda, smiles* And if you’re really crazy about this girl … let her know it all the time. Don’t ever take a minute you have together for granted, savvy? *takes another drink, continues* Now, the thing about her
clothes … women do that sometimes, who knows why? It’s just something
they do. Come to think of it, there are some men who do that. How long do you think it takes Don to decide on that getup every morning?
*laughs, glad when Sam laughs a little bit; he wants to put him more at ease*
Best thing you can do is just let her do it. If she asks you how she looks
in something, don’t lie to her if you really don’t think it looks good … but tell her gently. Like I said, just think how you would want someone to speak to you, and do the same for her. *grins* And avoid the word ‘fat’ … never
met a woman yet who was okay with it. *chuckles, looks at the picture again* But you won’t have to worry about that, this girl’s a knockout. *puts out his cigarette* Does all that make sense to you?
Sam: *looks puzzled at all
the information that Malachi said to him* No not really *takes a sip of chocolate*
dont say the word fat *frowns* why would someone say that to someone else. *pauses again*
I make her laugh a lot she has a pretty smile and the sweetest laugh. Malachi
she moved in with me the day we met after we had tapioca she doesn't like raisins and she likes to watch buster keaton like
me. *laughs when he thinks about Don* could you imagine it he must choose his
out the night before I bet you he has one in every colour *laughs* he is a strange man I don’t know what Ava sees in
him because if I was a girl I wouldn't go near him.
Malachi: Well, there’s no accounting for people’s tastes sometimes.
There are many women in town who find Don irresistible. You’ve seen
all the posters an’ stuff around town, I’m sure. He’s a celebrity,
known for his romance. *finishes his drink, waves to the waitress for another
one* ‘Course, even a man like Don has his problems sometimes. You never know, Sam, m’boy, sometimes you just wake up one morning, and you find you’re singing
a different tune. *laughs, lights another cigarette. He sees Sam’s confused expression, waves a hand* Never
mind, don’t worry about Don and Ava. Just … just do everything like
I told you, and you and Romany will be fine.
Sam: ok Malachi if you say
so *looks even more puzzled* singing what do you mean Malachi do I have to sing to Romany does Don sing to Ava do you sing to
your girl *shakes his head* you are very confusing Malachi but if you say it, it must be true. *thinks for a moment*
is that why Ava is so cranky lately I go near her and she snaps at me. *pauses again* she can be very cranky when she wants
to be it all started about a fortnight ago maybe she doesn’t like the song he sings *he confuses himself* maybe he has
stopped singing to her.
Malachi *tries not to laugh
but he can’t help it; he nearly loses some of the bourbon through his nose* Sam,
it’s … I don’t think he’s stopped singing so much as he’s … well, let’s say he’s
a little tone-deaf right now. *he wipes his mouth on his sleeve* It’s a long story, and it’s personal, just between Ava and Don, okay? So let it go, it’s really nobody else’s business. And
don’t be asking her anything about it unless she says she’d like to talk to you.
I’m sure they’ll work out their problems, one way or another. Back
to you and Romany … anything else I can tell you? You know … you
might make Don feel good by asking him some questions, whenever you see him again. I’m
sure he’s not gone far. *shrugs*
After all, he’s had a hell of a lot more women than I have. *grins,
takes a drink*
Sam *laughs at Malachi* oh
that will sting Malachi it really hurts if you do it with milk. *Sam pauses and ponders Malachi question* Nah I wont bother
Don he is too confusing he rambles on and on in his funny accent I cant take in to many things at once if I do my brain aches.
Malachi I have one last question I cant understand about Romany she puts this sticky shiny stuff on her lips it taste disgusting
I think it's called gloss *shakes his head* yuck your lips stick together like this *show Malachi* and you cant talk so you
become a mute *laughs*
Malachi *smiles,
finishes his drink* Well, tell her you like the natural look. Then maybe she’ll stop wearing it. Or take her shopping,
look at some of that stuff with her. Lipstick can be sexy, maybe she just hasn’t
found the right kind yet. *he stands up, puts some money on the table* C’mon, Sam, I need to get going. I’ve got a couple
of errands to run, and I gotta get back to the house. But we can keep talking
for awhile if you want to come with me. You can even come to the house if you
want. I bet the kids would love to meet you.
*Sam stands up, Malachi takes him out of the restaurant … neither of them realizing that Don Juan was sitting
in the booth next to theirs, hearing every word*
Don: Tapioca and Buster Keaton, haha! Sammy boy, I wouldn't go
anywhere near if you were a female ... *he looks at his drink, a fine, aged, rich and sensuous red wine, deep and glowing
as a woman's kiss, grown under the hot Spanish sun and stored in oak barrels till the taste reached it full flavor.* And Malachi, my dear and discreet friend, it really is a personal matter ... *Just
one more day to go, but he feels already better. He feels full of vigor and force,
and soon he will be glowing as he used to. He calls a waitress* My dear, I want to share this great wine with a beautiful woman who has stars in her eyes. Drinking this wine is like having a taste of love itself ... He watches content how the woman slowly sinks
down on the chair opposite him, not being able to take her eyes from him. He
pours the lady some of the wine, and she takes the glass with a shaky hand, and he says softly* Drink it, my dear. Feel the warmth coursing through your veins,
filling up your whole body, lighting a fire within you ... *all the while he talks to her in his velvety voice he keeps their
eyes locked. The waitress, a dull little thing, literally changes in his eyes
into a luscious mature love goddess as she sips her wine* I want to see you drink
it, let the taste of love intoxicate you ... *Once more he is amazed by his own power. Every
woman is beautiful. Every woman is perfect, well, except for Ava who has gathered
a little too much fat and started to act weirdly and eat strange food. Maybe
she isn't really in balance yet.* Tell me dear, do you happen to know a woman
called Romany? *he sees the disappointment in her eyes and hastens to go on*
She is a friend of my wife's. *The
waitress, swallows, nods, then she tells him about this Romany, and he thanks her by giving her the final blow, slowly he
puts his hand on hers and strokes it, and she gasps for air and her eyes go glassy ... One more day and the world's greatest
lover is back*
At Cavalcanti’s:
Mercy *enters her new room
in the Cavalcanti house. It is so different from the house of her mother's, the
damp and ancient mansion that mother is so proud over. It's all about traditions
and family honor, and she has been brought up to respect the ancients, but she feels so much more comfortable in this modern
palace with proper heating and proper air conditioning, and luxurious bathrooms. She
likes even the white painted walls without any patterned wallpapers. And her
bed is so soft that she just has to bounce on it a couple of times ... She peeks
out of the window. Even the view appeals to her. Cavalcanti has built his magnificent
palace by the roadside, not hidden at the end of some park alleyway, as her home. The
street below her is full of life, and she feels that she could go on watching the traffic and people, the bustle and the noise,
and the odd clothing of some of them paints such a vivid picture in front of her eyes.
Then she remembers her duties, she starts to unpack her things and order her clothes neatly in the closet, the morning
dresses, walking dresses, visiting dresses, receiving visitor dresses, her seaside dress, her race dress, concert dress and
dinner and ball dresses. She sorts her gloves according to color and usage, and
puts all her shoes in a row. When everything is done, she sits down to read once again the 'Angel in the House'
to keep herself from the sinful thoughts of trying to picture her future husband. She
has learned that everything in a marriage is dependant on the qualities of the wife, but still, she trembles a bit when she
thinks about the frightful fact that her fiancé-to-be is Lady Ainsworth's brother*
Man
must be pleased; but him to please
Is woman's pleasure; down the gulf
Of his condoled necessities
She casts her best,
she flings herself.
How often flings for nought, and yokes
Her heart to an icicle or whim,
Whose each impatient word
provokes
Another, not from her, but him;
While she, too gentle even to force
His penitence by kind replies,
Waits
by, expecting his remorse,
With pardon in her pitying eyes;
And if he once, by shame oppress'd,
A comfortable word
confers,
She leans and weeps against his breast,
And seems to think the sin was hers;
Or any eye to see her charms,
At
any time, she's still his wife,
Dearly devoted to his arms;
She loves with love that cannot tire;
And when, ah woe,
she loves alone,
Through passionate duty love springs higher,
As grass grows taller round a stone.
*Once
more she sighs at the beauty of the scene. She knows that she will be as perfect
as Emily the angel-wife, who embodies all that is good in a woman - meekness, beauty, gracefulness, self-sacrificing, pious
and pure*
At Sam’s:
Sam *arrives back home after
Chez Roux he keeps on repeating all the things that Malachi told him to do. Sam opens the gate and makes his way up to their
home, Romany greets him at the door she has huge smile on her face, she throws her arms him and she holds him tightly. Sam
smiles and looks into her eyes he must remember all the things that he was told.* You
have the prettiest eyes Romany.
Romany: *giggles* thank you
Sam *she kisses him* I missed you
Sam: I missed you too *smiles*
no sticky stuff on your lips that’s good
Romany: *laughs* no it kept
sticking my lips together *they walk in their home and sit on the sofa* I couldn’t speak and my hair got in it
Sam: Romany you smell nice
Romany: You smell nice to
like chocolate
Sam: I had a hot chocolate
with Malachi
Romany: Did you *she smiles
all though she is a little disappointed*
Sam: he invited us to their
house I had a man to man talk with him
Romany: did you
Sam: yeah *he wraps his arm
around her and pulls her close* Romany
Romany: Yes Sam
Sam: I think I need to go
to bed
Romany: Oh sure you go
Sam: are you coming to?
Romany: No I don’t
need a nap Sam
Sam: Neither do I
Romany: Oh why are you going
to bed then *he scoops her up and carries her up the stairs and Romany giggles. They
nervously fumble their way through their own little fun and they lay together in each other’s arms. Sam and Romany look
up through the skylight and watch the clouds go by. Romany is happy the way it went she wouldn’t have it any other way
she can’t see what woman find interesting in Don Juan.*
Sam: Romany I love you.
Romany: I love you too. *With that they both fall asleep in each others arms they are both content and in
utter bliss.*
At Hanson’s:
Isabella *having finished her little fruit salad rises from her seat and puts the bowl and coffee-mug in the dishwasher;
checks the clock on the kitchen wall* I better get to the Office.
Hanson *keeping his gaze on the newspaper lying on the table in front of him* Yes,
I suppose you wouldn’t want to keep the Inspector waiting.
Isabella *looks at him with a frown; there’s not much doubt about the hidden message in that comment. She wrestled with the decision about whether or not to tell Hanson about what happened between her and Abberline
by the warehouses, but decided it wouldn’t do anyone any good telling him. Despite
what happened, it still annoys her that Hanson would even insinuate that something’s going on – especially now.
She studies him for a bit, then smiles a little* Tom,
are you jealous?
Hanson *still looking down on the newspaper; with a little pout* No.
Isabella *smothers a laugh; smiles* You do know that you’re being
silly, right?
Hanson *smiles slightly as he looks up at her* Yes … *hesitates*
So you’re going to continue working with him then?
Isabella *Shrugs* I guess. I
mean, it’s sort of working and as long as it isn’t a huge problem. *Sighs
a little* You really don’t have anything to worry about. I can’t deny that I’m good at making a mess of things, but I don’t cheat.
Hanson: I know. It’s
just me being stupid. Sorry, I didn’t mean to suggest that you would …
Isabella: It’s OK, let’s just forget about it. Anyway, Abberline’s not coming in today; he’s taking a sick day. Donnie promised to look into that couple claiming to be Emma’s parents. I want to know what he found out. *Glances down her shirt*
Could I borrow a clean shirt? I
slept in this one.
Hanson *Nods* Sure. You do
realize what people are going to think when they see us going to the office together with you wearing a man’s shirt?
Isabella *laughs a little* So we’ll get the town talking. *rests her elbows on the table and kisses him* Which drawer?
Hanson *smiles* Second from the top.
*finishes his coffee while Isabella goes in to change; soon after, they’re walking towards the Security Office*
Outside Chez Roux:
Ava *is alone again Don has
gone out early again she is sure he is starting to suspect something she is putting a little bit of weight on. Ava looks at
the kitchen bench there lays the two books that she borrowed from Corso Ava feels some guilt about taking them. Although she
thought she earned them there is a lot of guilt that comes with them sighing she picks them up and puts them in her bag. Ava
finishes her cheese on toast with pickled onions sliced on top and she brushes her teeth and chews some gum. The sun is shinning
so she decides to walk to find Corso it’s a shame to be in the car when it’s such a beautiful day. Ava leaves
the house she starts to feel the urge she feels when she needs her manly fix. She isn’t sure where she should start
first maybe, Sarah’s so Ava heads in that direction but when she arrives the door is locked. Then she tries his hide
out where they had their fun but again that is locked Ava starts to wonder if she will ever find him. Ava makes her way back
into town and stops at Chez Roux to have a apple juice outside when she spots a familiar face smiling she downs her apple
juice. She quickly walks up to him
Ava: Mr Corso I have been
looking all over for you such a hard man to find I thought you’d disappeared off of the face of the planet *laughs*
I am so happy to see you
Alphonse *looks at her, frowns,
curious* I – I’m sorry, have we met before?
Ava: Yes last week Sarahs books. *looks at him oddly* Page 152 *smiles*
ok all of them to be right if I seem to remember you enjoyed yourself very much *smiles and pulls out the
books* I borrowed these from you I wanted to give you them back I felt guilty *smiles* Here
take them.
Alphonse *takes the books, still
looking at her, then looks down at the books and blushes* Oh! Ahhh, I think I know what’s going on here. I’m
sorry, miss, I believe you’re confusing me for my cousin Dean. I’m
Alphonse Corso … delighted to meet you. *he starts to offer his hand, then
he looks at the books again, grimaces; he quickly sets them down, takes out a handkerchief, wipes his hands, then offers to
shake again*
Ava *blushes so much she
wants to run away and lock herself away* Oh my I am so sorry I..I.. have made the biggest fool out of myself I umm am really
sorry. *nervously shakes his hand her hand shakes* I well I bet you think that I am a right tart but I am not *she starts
to dig a bigger hole for herself thinks of a lie* He dared me he said I wouldn't do it he says I am too shy. *smiles behind
her hair* I am Ava I am so sorry they are disgusting I thought they were Emily Bronte books I love Wuthering
Heights but I was very wrong.
Alphonse *raises
eyebrows* Well, you certainly change your tune quickly! *he looks her over; he doesn’t really believe her, but she seems to mean well, so he lets it go* You know, there’s nothing wrong with … well, with being tarty …
not that I believe you’re necessarily tarty … or UNnecessarily tarty either, for that matter … that is to
say … *starts fumbling over his words, blushes more* Dash it all. Look, I … *he smiles a little* Quite
frankly, young lady, it’s so refreshing to meet a female acquaintance of my cousin who doesn’t begin the conversation
by slapping me, I don’t care what you prefer to read! *he looks toward
the docks, holds his arm out to her* Would you care to see my ship, the Corpse
Bride? It’s quite ‘yar,’ as the seafaring types say.
Ava *Raises her eyebrow*
Ok I Iied how do you see through people I am bad at it and I suppose he is pretty cute *realising what he said* Hey I ain’t
one of his tarts in fact I don’t know if I should trust you *looks him up and down* Well how do I know your not
like him you certainly talk like him and you look like him and I think you should care because *pauses she cant think of any
thing* well just because and I would like to know what you like to read and I always tell people what I read *takes
his arm* Sure why not lead the way *Ava likes him he has something in him that she likes*
Alphonse *smiles* Fine. *he starts to lead her away, then he remembers the books;
he crouches down, picks them up, hides them under his coat, then guides her to his ship at the docks. They board, he puts the books down to return to Dean later, then he takes her to the upper deck* Isn’t it a fine vessel? Have you done much sailing,
Miss Ava?
Ava: It is quite
the beauty I must admit I must apologise for my behaviour Alphonse it was very rude of me so I am sorry *looks
around* what do define a much Alphonse if that means have never set foot on a boat before than you would be correct *smiles*
So Alphonse what made you buy a boat isn't unlucky to have a lady on a boat *shrugs* well I can’t call myself a lady
really can I?
Alphonse *waves
a hand* Please, no need to apologize. My
cousin has a way of bringing out a … well, a different side to all women. He
has a rather remarkable wife who tends to return exactly what he dishes out. Somehow
it works between them. *shrugs, then looks around the deck* Not boat, Miss Ava .. ship. I’ve always wanted a ship. I had a fine ship some time
ago, but … some hooligans swiped it right out from under me. It was humiliating. *he frowns at the memory, then brightens as he once again gazes around his ship* I personally don’t consider women unlucky on ships. Even less so, after I was rescued at sea by a woman … a pirate, lives right here, Manouche Roussel
Blake. She’s a bit … brusque, but … well, her intentions are
good. *he steals a glance at Ava, likes the way the breeze is blowing her hair. He moves closer to her* W-would you like
to see more? How about … *glances up* … the crow’s nest? Very secluded and romantic. *his eyes
widen; he’s not sure what made him suggest that. He looks at her anxiously,
stammers* I – I mean, it’s – it’s quite safe up there,
I assure you .. *he winces at his clumsy words; what's gotten into him?*
Ava *walks over to him* Don’t
let them bother you this ship is a fine ship indeed Alphonse *smiles* Yes I would love to see more Alphonse. *looks at him
she smiles and looks up; it's very high indeed* Romantic you say I could do with some of that in my life it's lacking
in that department I just think I am unlucky in it *shrugs* who knows.*nervously laughs* Are you sure it's safe, it looks
very high up there Alphonse *looks up and gulps*
Alphonse *looks
at her, surprised, she seems so vulnerable, he impulsively puts his arm around her*
It is rather high … but don’t worry, I’ll see to it that you’re safe. *he leans in, sniffs her hair, suddenly strongly drawn to her, his senses stirred by her sweet trepidation
about the height of the crow’s nest, as well as his own uncharacteristic boldness toward her. He’s never felt so forward with someone he just met before.
He briefly thinks of Dean’s books that she gave him, and he blushes; he brings her over to the rope ladder* Here, we’ll climb up together, you start, right in front of me. *he brings her in front of him, she starts to climb; he climbs close behind her, suddenly feeling a surprising
dizziness, which he’d never felt before, all the times he has climbed up to the crow’s nest. He blinks, calls out to her as much for his own benefit as hers*
J-just don’t look down! *he frowns, annoyed at how high-pitched
and squeaky his voice sounded. They finally make it up to the crow’s nest, which is fairly spacious for two people. He helps her in, follows her, hopes his trembling isn’t too obvious. He brings out his handkerchief again, briskly wipes his hands to hide their shaking. Speaks brightly* There!
Now, that wasn’t so bad, was it? *he relaxes and looks out at the
sea, feeling more back to normal, now able to enjoy as usual the view the crow’s nest offers. He waves his hand out to the view, smiling at her* This makes
it worth it, don’t you agree? *he looks at her more closely, gazes
into her eyes* … it’s positively … *moves closer* … intoxicating …
Ava *looks into his eyes*
Positively *grows closer to him* intoxicating *their lips nearly touch* from what I can see *Finally their lips meet
and Ava wraps her arm around his neck and moves her hands futher down* Alphonse *giggles as he moves to her neck* oh it's
wonderful.
Alphonse *gasps,
suddenly thinks perhaps they’re going too far too quickly; decides to try some light chat* D-did you know how the crow’s nest got its name? It’s
because crows were brought onto ships to help determine where the closest land was when the navigator was unable to see …
*keeps talking as Ava nibbles his neck* ... th-the crows were kept in cages that were hung at the top of the mast, and later,
when ships got larger and they started posting a crewman as a lookout up high, the platform where he stood became known as
the crow’s nest. *swallows at Ava’s wandering hands* I-it’s quite interesting, isn’t it? N-n-nautical
terminology … *laughs nervously* S-some of it is quite silly, like – like names for parts of the ship. Sheets
… timberhead … manrope … *starts blushing again* … whipstaff … T-hole … scuttlebutt …
*his voice rises sharply as Ava’s busy hands reach a very significant place* SPANKER!!
… *he takes her roughly in his arms, speaks in a husky voice* Come my dear,
you’ll be astounded by the sturdy craftsmanship that goes into the making of a crow’s nest!! *kisses her hard, drops to the floor of the crow’s nest, presses her down underneath him …
*
At From Hell Court:
Jeanne *returns to her modest
apartment. The more she thinks about the reception she got, the angrier she gets.
Both Commander Portsmith and Mistress Fiore turned out to be pompous intolerable
fools. Neither is going to get her parchment. She'll
sell it to the highest bidder on eBay … And then all her thoughts disperse as she sees her rooms - everything is ripped
in pieces. Someone has performed a very thorough search. She rushes to the secret hiding place she made for the parchment, but the hole in the wall behind the fridge
gapes open and empty, and the fridge itself is tossed on the kitchen floor. The
parchment is gone. Without checking the rooms more closely, she slams the door
shut and goes out, trying to figure which one of the ruthless demon ladies it was. She
has to get the parchment back, and even more the research papers of the treasure hidden under Deppville, it is either a gold
mine or an ancient treasure of the Conquistadors, but whichever it is, the treasure remains unfound. She is sure that it exists, there are too many references, too many old tales relating to it. A possible fortune has been stolen by her because of her naïvety. She
fumes as she walks the alley and bumps straight into a man blocking her way.* Get
out of my way, you idiot ... Oh, it's you. *it
is the husband of the bitch in the castle, it is so very easy to distinguish him for his white stripe in the hair. Her brain starts to work immediately. She is not going to confront
the bitches, she can use this man to get back what belongs to her.* Say, would
you like to share a drink with me?
Sweeney *looks at her he
sniffs the air around her she still smells like mud * Why not I am sure it wouldn't harm any one would it? but it must be
in a From Hell court bar, I don’t like those fancy bars. *he offers her his arm* Now why are you so angry?
Jeanne: From Hell suits me fine. Tell me, is the Mistress like that
always, even in private? I came to offer her something valuable and she just
looked at me like I were something the cat dragged in. Forgive me if I ask a
personal question, but how can a man marry a vulture like her?
Sweeney: Elizabeth is a delicate flower that needs to be approached with the right kind
of care. *snarls* She is a smart woman who cant be fooled easily believe me I have tried *looks at her with
his icy eyes* Well we share the same interests and she lets me be I am free to do as I please Miss Missoni. *pauses*
That's why she is called Mistress she doesn't take nothing from none one you double-cross her, she will return the favour
and do the same to you.
Jeanne *turns to look at
the man. Delicate flower? Is he
joking? But his eyes are very cold, almost hostile, and she shudders suddenly*
I have never before been treated so badly. And
just what are the interest you share with her?
Sweeney: Ah she treats you
badly because if you do not flinch or say anything you gain her respect but if break in front of her you are deemed
to be weak and you are wasting her time. Why we share a lot of things we like old Gothic items we don't like brats we like to
participate *stops* why are you so interested in me and Elizabeth if you don't like her why ask so many questions?
Jeanne: Because I wanted to understand her and her motives. Did she
... would she do anything to get what she wants? Sorry, but I am a bit nervous
about the late proceedings. I don't know who to trust anymore. My apartment was broken into. I think *hesitates* I think
I should call the Security.
Sweeney *thinks of a half
decent lie* Oh Elizabeth just said to put the heebies in you of course she wouldn't she just likes people to feel really really
uncomfortable. *smiles knowing of course she would but she would get some one else to do it for her* Oh don't be nervous you
can always trust me I am not as scary as I look. *looks at her* Now who would do a thing like that it. I
wouldn't call the security because they wont care, they will pass it off as someone broke in looking for money for their drugs.
At Cavalcanti’s:
Mercy *dutifully practicing
her etudes on the piano, trying at the same time to catch something of the discussion of Lady Ainsworth and Mr. Cavalcanti,
but she doesn't dare to stop her playing, and she only gets floating words that have no meaning. She knows they are talking about her.*
Cavalcanti: Why
would she be the obvious choice? She is not a great beauty, she is rather boring,
and she could be slimmer.
Lady Ainsworth: You still don't understand.
Let me explain to you. We have to
choose our partners very carefully. The Clydes are of a respectable ancient family
with not a spot of blemish on their coat of arms, they are of the kind that normally would look the Abberlines down their
nose. But Helen Clyde is a widower and she has five daughters to marry off. And the family is rather impoverished, so they will welcome the offer from my brother.
And, a wife is not a supermodel. Actually,
a good wife should be not too beautiful, because in that case she just arouses sinful thoughts in men. And beautiful girls tend to be spoiled by nature, choosy and picky and too confident in themselves. No, a plainer girl makes a good wife. She
is grateful to have made it to marriage, and she will remember every day, that her husband could have taken a woman more pretty,
and that makes her work harder at being the perfect wife. You say that she is
boring, which I take means that she has good manners. She is not your nosy cocaine-snorting
slut. Her kingdom is the home. She
does not have to show off. She has to make the home a comfortable and peaceful
haven for her husband. She has to raise a family. And third, her build is of utmost importance. She has to be
capable of birthing healthy children. A man needs an heir.
Cavalcanti:
Inspector Abberline has two children as far as I know.
Lady Ainsworth
*with contempt* Two Indian children with weird names. White Raven Abberline? Just imagine how the society in Bournemouth
and London would react! Dear Papa would have
a stroke! I could never show my face again. And
he is just a brat born out of wedlock, a pirate bastard, and what is worse, my brother was still married to poor Victoria at the time. No, he needs a male heir to carry on dear Papa's name, to
strive upwards on the path Papa started. Marrying a Clyde is the next step on the
social ladder.
Cavalcanti *scratching his carefully disarrayed designer-style hair* But
... but he is married?
Lady Ainsworth: That marriage is not valid. I will get it annulled. *Cavalcanti looks
at Lady Ainsworth's icy cold eyes and shudders. Mercy mechanically continues
her practice, wondering when she will meet HIM*
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